West Asia Tensions: India Cracks Down on LPG Hoarding
photo credit X @PCMohanMP
12,000+ raids, 15,000 LPG cylinders seized; govt urges no panic buying as supply remains steady
By TRH News Desk
New Delhi, March 17, 2026 —The Centre on Tuesday assured that fuel supplies across India remain stable despite escalating tensions in West Asia, even as it intensified enforcement action against LPG hoarding and black marketing.
At an inter-ministerial briefing, officials said more than 12,000 raids have been conducted nationwide, leading to the seizure of over 15,000 LPG cylinders. States and Union Territories have been directed to continue strict action under the Essential Commodities Act to curb irregularities.
“Citizens are advised not to resort to panic buying. Adequate stocks of petrol, diesel and LPG are available across the country,” the government said.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas confirmed that all refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient crude inventories. India remains self-sufficient in petrol and diesel production, and no supply disruptions have been reported at retail outlets.
To ease pressure on LPG supplies, the government has encouraged commercial users in urban areas—such as hotels, restaurants and hospitals—to shift to piped natural gas (PNG). States have been asked to fast-track approvals for City Gas Distribution (CGD) pipelines, with companies offering incentives for new connections.
The government also highlighted a sharp rise in digital adoption, with online LPG bookings increasing to about 94 percent. Measures such as Delivery Authentication Codes have been expanded to prevent diversion of cylinders.
On the logistics front, LPG carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi have arrived at Indian ports, with cargo discharge underway to maintain supply chains.
Maritime authorities said all Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe, with no reported incidents. Over 447 seafarers have been repatriated so far, and control rooms are actively assisting maritime stakeholders.
The Ministry of External Affairs said Indian missions across West Asia are functioning round-the-clock to assist nationals. Around 130 Indian pilgrims who had crossed into Armenia are expected to return to India shortly.
The government reiterated that ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply and the safety of Indian citizens remain top priorities. Citizens have been urged to rely on official information, avoid rumours, and use digital platforms for LPG bookings as the situation evolves.
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